According to the magazine's inside source, Bellino wasn't even asked back for Season 8 until a new cast member dropped out at the last minute. If true, that would explain Alexis and her misogynistic husband
Jim's flimsy storyline and noticeable lack of substance in what little air time they got.

Gretchen, on the other hand, probably knew she was next and may or may not have faked an elaborate engagement to
Slade Smiley to create a storyline for herself. Her fellow housewives certainly thought that was the case, and made their opinions on the matter known during the "RHOC" Season 8 reunion shows.

The newest OC housewives,
Heather Dubrow and
Lydia McLaughlin have both reportedly been asked to return, along with
Tamra Barney and her best frenemy,
Vicki Gunvalson. Barney's actual, real-life, genuine engagement to
Eddie Judge played out on the show, and was followed up recently by "Tamra's OC Wedding," in which the pair sealed the deal amid typical OC drama.

"The Real Housewives of Orange County" Season 9 is expected to start shooting in early November.